The West Islip Girls Lacrosse recently brought their community together for a powerful Mental Health Awareness Game dedicated to the memory of Steven Battista, using athletics as a platform to honor his life, raise awareness, and remind others they are never alone.
Held during Mental Health Awareness Month, the event focused on promoting compassion, advocacy, and support surrounding mental health. Steven Battista tragically lost his battle with mental illness in October 2025, and the evening served as both a tribute to his memory and a call to continue breaking the silence around mental health struggles.
Steven’s daughter, Giavanna Battista, is a valued member of the West Islip lacrosse family, making the evening especially meaningful for players, coaches, and supporters. The program proudly partnered with the Battista family to support the Steven Battista Memorial Scholarship for Hope and Healing, which will benefit graduating seniors.
The team’s Booster Club organized a bake sale, raffle, and additional fundraising efforts throughout the night, with all proceeds supporting the scholarship fund. Before the game, the Battista family joined both teams for a heartfelt pregame ceremony. In a moving display of unity and support, players from both teams lined up together at midfield and presented carnations to one another as a reminder that no one should face life’s challenges alone.
More than just a game, the evening highlighted the important role student-athletes can play in fostering empathy, connection, and community awareness. Through their leadership and compassion, the West Islip Girls Lacrosse program created a meaningful event that honored Steven’s legacy while encouraging conversations around mental health and healing.
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